The Bucs have a chance to pick up a quick series win on the road this afternoon. It’s true that the Cubs are really struggling at the moment, but the Pirates have had a tough time winning at Wrigley Field, so this would be big.

Day games = less compelling Gameday posts. Sorry.

Today’s starters…

Paul Maholm: 2-3, 4.61 vs. Ryan Dempster: 2-3, 3.44

Maholm had a very rough outing last time out, but he’s been steady enough to keep the Pirates in games. If their offense is anything like it was yesterday, he should put them in a position to win the game with the bats.

Dempster’s been pitching well lately, but did lose to the Pirates in that sweep back at PNC in a low-scoring game. He’s 6-7 with a career ERA above 5 against the Bucs.